It’s so weird, isn’t it? I can’t remember the last time a player of Beltran’s stature got traded by the Mets to another team during the season. I watched him hit in black and orange yesterday, and it felt like watching the Mets center fielder helping out the Giants, as though he was doing them a temporary favor filling in for a month or so, after which he’d return home to New York.

I know this isn’t the case. He is a Giant. Also, I know he’s not re-signing here. I’ve heard his agent, Scott Boras, will be seeking a five-year, $70 million deal this winter. And, while I’m certain he’ll sign some place for less, I can’t see how it’s in Queens.

In the end, I guess I’m just not used to being in this position, watching a star get traded (even though I know it’s what’s best for the long term position of the franchise). I’ve seen players leave as free agents, after this season, but never pick up and move mid-year, in the middle of a pennant race. What’s more, I want to root for him… so long as he doesn’t interfere with the Mets. Yes, in the event he gets to the post season, and the Mets do not, I’ll be rooting for the Giants. In the meantime, it makes for an awkward situation, and something I’m clearly not used to seeing.